Proverbs 7:8

KJV

Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,

KJV (with Strong's)

Passing through {H5674} the street {H7784} near {H681} her corner {H6434}; and he went {H6805} the way {H1870} to her house {H1004},

Complete Jewish Bible

He crosses the street near her corner and continues on toward her house.

Berean Standard Bible

crossing the street near her corner, strolling down the road to her house,

American Standard Version

Passing through the street near her corner; And he went the way to her house,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 7:8 meticulously details the initial, seemingly unassuming steps of a naive young man as he is drawn into the snare of a seductress. This verse precisely charts his purposeful movement through a public thoroughfare, past a known point of encounter, and directly towards the dwelling of the adulterous woman. It serves as a pivotal moment in the father's urgent cautionary narrative, powerfully illustrating how proximity to temptation, even if initially underestimated or perceived as innocuous, can swiftly lead to profound moral compromise and spiritual devastation, setting the stage for the unfolding tragedy of folly.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Proverbs 7:8 is an indispensable component of an extended, vivid warning from a father to his son, a narrative that spans [Proverbs 7:6-27](/proverbs/7 "Proverbs 7 - The Allure of the Adulteress"). The preceding verses, particularly [Proverbs 7:6-7](/proverbs/7-6-7 "Proverbs 7:6-7 - The Simple Young Man Observed"), establish the father's observational vantage point, where he discerns a "simple one" and "a young man void of understanding" among the unsuspecting youths. Verse 8 then transitions from general observation to specific, deliberate action, detailing the young man's physical progression towards imminent danger. This narrative structure masterfully builds suspense, portraying a gradual, almost inevitable, descent into temptation, which culminates in the harlot's cunning entrapment and the dire, life-destroying consequences vividly depicted in [Proverbs 7:22-27](/proverbs/7-22-27 "Proverbs 7:22-27 - The Consequences of Folly"). Thus, this verse functions as a crucial turning point, shifting the focus from the description of the victim to the initiation of his perilous and ultimately fatal journey.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Israel, the "street" (`shûwq`) was far more than a mere passage; it was a vibrant public arena, often bustling with commercial activity, social interaction, and communal life. "Corners" (`pên`) of streets or city gates were strategic locations for public gatherings, business transactions, and, notably, for those seeking to attract attention or lure others, offering both visibility and a tactical vantage point. The "house" (`bayith`) of an adulteress would have been a place of ill repute, potentially identifiable by certain architectural features, its location, or the woman's overt behavior, as subtly hinted at in [Proverbs 7:10-12](/proverbs/7-10-12 "Proverbs 7:10-12 - The Appearance and Tactics of the Adulteress"). The narrative powerfully reflects a patriarchal society where the moral instruction of young men, particularly concerning sexual purity, was paramount, viewed as foundational to wisdom, family honor, and societal well-being. The danger posed by such women was not merely moral but also profoundly social and economic, as association with them could lead to financial ruin, public disgrace, and even physical harm, themes consistently echoed throughout the comprehensive wisdom literature of the [Book of Proverbs](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom for Life").

* **Key Themes:** This verse profoundly contributes to several central themes woven throughout the [Book of Proverbs](/proverbs "The Book of Proverbs - Wisdom for Life"). Firstly, it starkly highlights the theme of **Proximity to Temptation**, emphasizing that a deliberate or careless placement of oneself in compromising environments constitutes the perilous first step towards sin. The young man's chosen "way" (`derek`) is not accidental but a conscious path, leading directly to the source of danger. Secondly, it powerfully underscores the pervasive antithesis of the **Path of Folly vs. Wisdom**, a foundational dichotomy within Proverbs. The "way to her house" is presented as the antithesis of the "path of life" referenced in [Proverbs 6:23](/proverbs/6-23 "Proverbs 6:23 - The Path of Life") or the "path of the righteous" illuminated in [Proverbs 4:18](/proverbs/4-18 "Proverbs 4:18 - The Path of the Righteous"). Thirdly, the verse subtly but effectively introduces the theme of the **Subtlety of Seduction**, where the initial steps towards moral compromise appear deceptively mundane—merely "passing through the street"—masking the profound spiritual and physical peril that inexorably awaits. This gradual, almost imperceptible approach to temptation is far more insidious than an overt, sudden act of sin, rendering it a potent and timeless warning for all who might underestimate the danger of seemingly small compromises.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Passing through (Hebrew, _ʻâbar'_):** This verb (H5674) is a primitive root signifying "to cross over" or "to pass through." It denotes active movement and transition, often implying a deliberate act. In this context, the young man is not merely loitering but actively traversing a specific area, indicating a conscious choice, however naive, to enter a dangerous zone. This word emphasizes the active nature of his progression towards folly, highlighting that his journey is not passive but a series of chosen steps.
* **Way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** The noun (H1870) derives from a root meaning "to tread" and refers literally to a "road" or "path." Figuratively, and most significantly in Proverbs, it denotes a "course of life" or "mode of action." In the wisdom literature, `derek` is a highly significant term, frequently contrasting the "way of the righteous" with the "way of the wicked." Here, "he went the way to her house" explicitly defines the young man's chosen course of action, which is morally perilous. It underscores the profound biblical idea that one's life is a journey, and every choice of "way" has a specific destination and inevitable consequences.
* **House (Hebrew, _bayith'_):** This common noun (H1004) primarily means "house" but extends broadly to "household," "family," or even "temple." In this verse, "her house" is the literal dwelling of the adulteress, but it functions powerfully as the symbolic, ultimate destination of the "way" of folly. It represents the place of entrapment, moral decay, and ultimately, spiritual death, as [Proverbs 7:27](/proverbs/7-27 "Proverbs 7:27 - The Way to Death") later chillingly reveals it leads to the "chambers of death" and "hell."

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Passing through the street near her corner":** This initial clause vividly describes the young man's first steps into peril. He is not merely in the general vicinity but actively "passing through" the `shûwq` (street), a public thoroughfare. The phrase "near her corner" (`ʼêtsel pên`) precisely specifies his proximity to a known point of encounter, implying that the adulteress's dwelling or a place she frequented was strategically located to intercept potential victims. This detail underscores that the young man is placing himself in a vulnerable, accessible position, perhaps drawn by curiosity, a lack of discernment, or a misguided sense of invincibility. It highlights the initial, seemingly innocuous, yet critical, decision to engage with the environment of temptation.
* **"and he went the way to her house":** This second clause clarifies the directness, intent, and ultimate destination of his movement. The conjunction "and" seamlessly links his initial presence in the street to a direct, purposeful progression. "He went the way" (`tsâʻad derek`) signifies a chosen path, not an accidental stumble or a forced redirection. This path leads directly "to her house" (`bayith`), which is the physical locus of temptation, illicit pleasure, and ultimately, spiritual and physical ruin. This part of the verse powerfully underscores the deliberate nature of his journey towards moral danger, even if his understanding of the profound and destructive consequences is tragically "void."

#### Literary Devices
Proverbs 7:8 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its urgent and timeless warning. **Symbolism** is profoundly present, with the "street," "corner," and "house" serving as potent symbolic representations of the insidious progression of temptation. The "street" symbolizes the public sphere where moral choices are made and temptations lurk; the "corner" represents a specific point of decision, a strategic lure, or a familiar haunt of sin; and the "house" embodies the ultimate trap, the consequence of yielding, and a place of moral decay and spiritual death. The "way" (**derek**) is a classic Proverbs **metaphor** for a course of life, here representing the chosen path of folly that inexorably leads to destruction. The entire narrative functions as an **allegory**, illustrating the universal danger of succumbing to illicit desires and the gradual nature of moral decline. Furthermore, there is a strong element of **foreshadowing**, as the seemingly innocent act of walking towards the house subtly but powerfully hints at the disastrous outcome that will tragically unfold in the subsequent verses, building palpable dramatic tension and urgency within the father's warning.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Proverbs 7:8 serves as a profound theological warning about the insidious nature of temptation and the critical, often underestimated, importance of guarding one's steps. It highlights the fundamental principle that sin frequently begins not with a grand, overt transgression, but with seemingly small, deliberate choices to place oneself in compromising situations. The young man's journey to the adulteress's house is a poignant microcosm of humanity's pervasive tendency to stray from God's righteous path by gradually moving closer to what is forbidden. This verse underscores the biblical truth that our physical, digital, and relational environments significantly impact our spiritual well-being, emphasizing the urgent need for discernment, vigilance, and proactive avoidance of evil. It calls believers to cultivate a holy circumspection, recognizing that the "way" we choose, even in seemingly insignificant moments, ultimately determines our spiritual destination and profoundly shapes our character.

* [Proverbs 4:14-15](/proverbs/4-14-15 "Proverbs 4:14-15 - Avoid the Path of the Wicked")
* [Psalm 1:1](/psalm/1-1 "Psalm 1:1 - The Blessed Man's Path")
* [Matthew 6:13](/matthew/6-13 "Matthew 6:13 - The Lord's Prayer: Deliverance from Evil")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 7:8 offers a timeless and profoundly practical lesson for believers today: the battle against temptation is often won or lost long before the moment of overt sin. The young man's fatal error was not just entering the house, but the seemingly innocuous acts of "passing through the street near her corner" and "going the way to her house." This teaches us the vital importance of guarding our "paths"—whether these are physical places we frequent, digital content we consume, or relational dynamics we engage in. We must proactively identify and courageously avoid situations, environments, or relationships that could subtly or overtly lead us into temptation. This demands spiritual discernment to recognize the subtle allure and deceptive nature of sin, coupled with the discipline to turn away decisively before we become fully entangled. It challenges us to reflect deeply on the places we choose to be, the information we allow into our minds, and the company we keep, asking if these choices are genuinely leading us closer to God or subtly drawing us towards spiritual danger. True wisdom involves not merely resisting sin at its peak, but strategically avoiding its very approaches, recognizing that every step we take has a profound spiritual destination.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "streets" or "corners" in my life (physical, digital, relational) might be subtly leading me towards temptation or spiritual compromise?**
* **How can I proactively identify and courageously avoid these dangerous "paths" before I am fully entangled in sin's web?**
* **In what specific ways might I be underestimating the "simple" or seemingly harmless steps that could gradually lead to greater sin?**
* **What practical steps can I take today to cultivate greater spiritual discernment and self-control in my daily choices and interactions?**

### FAQ

**What does it mean for the young man to be "void of understanding" in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "void of understanding" (from [Proverbs 7:7](/proverbs/7-7 "Proverbs 7:7 - The Simple Young Man")) describes a profound lack of moral discernment, spiritual insight, and practical wisdom, rather than a mere intellectual deficiency. It signifies a deep naiveté or spiritual immaturity that renders the young man highly susceptible to deception and utterly unable to foresee the dangerous, destructive consequences of his actions. He lacks the wisdom to recognize the harlot's true, predatory nature or the existential peril of the path he is taking, making him an easy target for her deceptive allure. His "way" to her house is not necessarily malicious in intent, but profoundly foolish, demonstrating a tragic ignorance of life's spiritual dangers, a theme central to the foundational warnings found in [Proverbs 1:7](/proverbs/1-7 "Proverbs 1:7 - The Fear of the Lord is the Beginning of Knowledge"), which asserts that "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction."

**Why is the "street" and "corner" significant in this narrative?**

Answer: The "street" (`shûwq`) and "corner" (`pên`) are highly significant because they represent public, accessible spaces where encounters naturally occur. The harlot is not hiding in a secluded, private place but is actively positioning herself in areas where she can easily intercept vulnerable individuals. The "corner" specifically implies a strategic vantage point, a known meeting spot, or a place of frequent passage. This highlights that temptation often presents itself in seemingly ordinary or public settings, making it accessible, less conspicuous, and sometimes appearing less dangerous or morally compromising than it truly is. The young man's decision to "pass through" such a place, especially "near her corner," indicates a deliberate, though perhaps unwitting, engagement with the very environment of temptation, thereby setting the crucial stage for his eventual downfall into her "house."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 7:8, with its stark depiction of a young man choosing a perilous path leading to destruction, finds its ultimate fulfillment and counter-narrative in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "way" (`derek`) chosen by the foolish youth contrasts sharply with the divine "Way" that Jesus declares himself to be: "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me" ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life")). While the young man's path leads inexorably to the "chambers of death" ([Proverbs 7:27](/proverbs/7-27 "Proverbs 7:27 - The Way to Hell")), Jesus offers a path that leads to abundant, eternal life and true freedom from sin's bondage. He is the perfect Son who did not "pass through the street near her corner" of temptation, but rather, perfectly resisted every allure of the devil in the wilderness, emerging victorious ([Matthew 4:1-11](/matthew/4-1-11 "Matthew 4:1-11 - The Temptation of Jesus")). Furthermore, Jesus's "house" is not one of destruction but of salvation, refuge, and eternal belonging, inviting all who are weary and burdened to find rest and peace in Him ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Matthew 11:28-30 - Come to Me, All Who Are Weary")). Through His atoning sacrifice on the cross, Jesus takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God")), offering a new, righteous path for those once ensnared by folly, transforming their destructive "way" into a journey of grace, truth, and righteousness, ultimately leading them to the Father's eternal "house" in heaven ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "John 14:2-3 - Jesus Prepares a Place for Believers")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 4:14

¶ Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil [men].

Proverbs 4:15

Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.

Proverbs 5:8

Remove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house:

Jude 1:23

And others save with fear, pulling [them] out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.

2 Samuel 11:2

And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman [was] very beautiful to look upon.

2 Samuel 11:3

And David sent and enquired after the woman. And [one] said, [Is] not this Bathsheba, the daughter of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the Hittite?

Judges 16:1

¶ Then went Samson to Gaza, and saw there an harlot, and went in unto her.